Watch vs Warning

Extreme Heat Warning - Take Action

An extreme heat warning is issued when dangerous heat is happening or about to happen. Avoid outdoor activities if possible, wear loose or light-colored clothing, drink plenty of water, and stay indoors as much as possible. 

Extreme Heat Watch - Be prepared

An extreme heat watch is issued when dangerous heat is possible but its occurrence and timing is uncertain. Stay indoors in air conditioning if possible and plan to postpone major outdoor activities. 

Heat Advisory - Take Precautions

A Heat Advisory is issued for dangerous heat conditions that are not expected to reach warning criteria. Consider postponing or rescheduling outdoor activities, especially during the heat of the day. If you must be outside, be sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. 

Heat Wave

A prolonged period of unusually hot weather, typically lasting more than two days. It may occur with or without high humidity and can affect large geographic areas, placing many people at risk for heat-related illnesses.

Heat related Illnesses

Heat exhaustion or stroke occurs when the body overheats, usually due to exposure to high temperatures or strenuous physical activity in high temperatures for too long. Both are preventable with proper preparedness actions.

Expand FAQ List

    • Stay hydrated (one cup of water every 20 minutes)
    • Rest in air conditioned or shaded areas
    • Avoid physical activities or exercises during the hottest part of the day
    • Dress for the heat (light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing) 
    • Monitor yourself and others for signs of heat illness
    • Stay informed - monitor the weather and heat index 

    • Faint or dizziness
    • Excessive sweating
    • Cool, pale, clammy skin
    • Rapid, weak pulse
    • Muscle cramps
    • Headache

    • Throbbing headache
    • Extremely high body temperature
    • Red, hot, dry skin
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Rapid, strong pulse
    • Seizures
    • Confusion or altered mental status

  • Often the first sign of heat-related illness and a possible precursor to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

    Symptoms:

    • Painful muscle cramps or spasms (usually in the legs or abdomen)
    • Heavy sweating 

Fires

High temperatures combined with severe drought conditions can lead to fires. With these conditions it only takes a small spark to start a fire which can quickly develop into a larger incident threatening people and property. 

During periods of elevated fire danger:

  • Follow all campus fire safety rules and restrictions
  • Follow university and local fire restrictions 
  • Never leave heat sources unattended 
  • Keep flammable materials away from heat sources
  • Monitor local fire-weather conditions and university alerts

If you see a fire or smoke, move to a safe location and call 911